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The Global Insight

Do you need a license in Ohio to tattoo?

Author

Michael Gray

Updated on March 25, 2026

All tattoo and body piercing establishments are required by Ohio law to be licensed by a local health department. Ohio law also states that establishments offering tattoos or body piercing are not permitted to provide these services to anyone under age 18 without the consent of a parent or guardian.

What are the tattoo laws in Ohio?

The Ohio law states, (A) No person shall perform a tattooing procedure, body piercing procedure, or ear piercing procedure with an ear-piercing gun on an individual who is under eighteen years of age unless consent has been given by the individual’s parent, guardian, or custodian in accordance with division (B) of this …

What does 13 in a tattoo mean?

13 tattoo meaning The unlucky number is treated as an antidote to traditional bad luck and an identifier for other tattoo lovers. Number 13 is associated with the old school concept of superstitious sailors, prison gangs and outlaws, and alienation and outlaws.

How much is a tattoo license in Ohio?

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Every professional tattoo artist or body piercer in Ohio would be required to register with the state and pay for a $250 state license, if a proposal from Gov. Mike DeWine makes it into law.

How old can you be in Ohio to get a tattoo?

18
In Ohio, anyone under the age of 18 who wants a tattoo or body piercing needs the consent of a parent or guardian. Under the guidelines, doctors should tell teen patients looking to get tattoos and their parents to check at tattoo shops that they use hygienic practices.

Should I let my 16 year old get a tattoo?

It’s against the law for someone to tattoo you without the parent’s permission. If you’re under 18, your parent must give written permission for you to get a tattoo. It must explain the style of the tattoo and where on your body you are having it.

What does the tattoo of a teardrop mean?

One of the most widely recognized prison tattoos, the teardrop’s meaning varies geographically. In some places, the tattoo can mean a lengthy prison sentence, while in others it signifies that the wearer has committed murder. If the teardrop is just an outline, it can symbolize an attempted murder.

What does a 12 tattoo mean?

Often time number 12 is regarded as a symbol of harmony and peace. If you see this number often, it means that your life will be peaceful in the future. Another meaning related to number 12 is self-improvement. It indicates that this number will help you be successful and make improvements in all areas of your life.

What does H tattoo mean?

The first represents H, the eighth letter of the alphabet; HH stands for Heil Hitler. The second is the number of words in a really un-catchy mantra by neo-nazi David Lane, “We must secure the existence of our people and a future for white children.”

How do I open a tattoo shop in Ohio?

Tattoo and piercing shops are primarily regulated under Ohio Department of Health (ODH) regulations. You are required to submit plans for your business and an application form (available from your local health department), pay a fee and get your operation approved by your local health department.

Do you need a license to get a tattoo in Ohio?

The state of Ohio does not license tattoo artists to ensure safety and quality, but keeps a close watch on tattoo parlors themselves. Tattoo artists create designs on skin that stay with a person for the rest of her life.

How to get a tattoo license in Tennessee?

The state of Tennessee licenses tattoo artists to ensure the health of the public. To get your license, you just need to walk into the Department of Health and fill out an application. Take a course in tattoo methods and sterilization. Take the exam. After you get a passing score, ask for the Tattoo Apprentice application.

How to get a tattoo license in Hawaii?

In order to obtain a tattoo license in the state of Hawaii, you must: Fill out New Tattoo Artist License and pay $75 fee. Make checks payable to State of Hawaii. Fill out a tuberculosis and syphilis report form. The Health Department strongly encourages you get a Hepatitis B vaccine.

Do you need a tattoo license in Illinois?

Until recently, tattoo artists in the state of Illinois were not required to have any kind of permit or license to operate, they were only subjected to routine inspections, but all that has changed as you need to get a license to run your tattoo business in the state. To proceed, you need to take the tattoo artist license test.